Zachary's sharp wit completely overwhelmed Debbie. Before she could even react, he continued, "What's the point of running to my mom? I'm an adult—she has no right to interfere with who I marry."

Debbie's face turned bright red. She stared at him for several seconds before finally lowering her head, "I'm sorry," She murmured.

Looking into her eyes, I saw genuine regret rather than resentment or unwillingness.

After apologizing to me, she turned and ...